Purpose of using powder funnel with long drop tube?

[BigDMT]

I was wondering what the advantages are for using a long drop tube when charging cases? I thought I remembered hearing something about it allowing more powder to fit in a case but not sure...

 

[SeabeeKen]

It allows extruded powder kernels to line up and stack tighter in the case. You can do the same thing by tapping on the case.

 

[M-61]

The long drop tubes I have seen are plastic. Plastic tubes and funnels in the correct humidity and temperature are an invitation to static electricity. I use an aluminum funnel and I tap the case if needed. Maybe too many years in the service as an armorer, but they drilled the hazards of static electricity into my head permanently.

 

[Duster_360]

Long drop tube powder funnel makes a big difference if you're using a long stick powder like 4064. I can't get all the 4064 in my long range loads without using a long drop tube.


It makes a little less difference with the shorter stick powders. Mine (Bonanza) has a plastic funnel with metal drop tube and has no probs with static.

 

[dickn52]

Plastic drop tubes are forbidden in black powder reloading rooms. Static electricty etc... I use a 14 inch brass tube with funnel on the top and tapers to .30 for the loads. and yes, they will allow you to 'pack' more into the case if needed. They slow down the actual filling process allowing the grains of powder to nestle in and eliminate the voids caused by simply dumping the powder. My Shiloh Sharps in 45-70 could NEVER get 70 grains in the case without the tube. Now that was a beast to shoot. Not sure about this link, but this will get you to the metal tube I use.

http://www.shilohrifle.com/shop/product.php?productid=127&cat=13&page=3

 

[wboggs]

I also use a long 24" brass tube designed for Black Powder. Trickle it down slowly and you will see the difference.
Bill

 

[ridgeway]

A lot of 30BR guys use long drop tubes to get a case full of 4198.